Roelant Savery (Courtrai 1576 - Utrecht 1639)

Landscape with exotic animals

Roelant Savery (Courtrai 1576 - Utrecht 1639)

Landscape with exotic animals

28.3 x 40 cm (11 ¹/₈ x 15 ³/₄ inches)
Oil on panel
17th century
ROELANDT SAVERY

ROELANDT SAVERY

DESCRIPTION +


This painting depicts an animal scene set in a lush, wooded landscape. The composition features a wide variety of animals, arranged on several levels, in an idealised natural environment. In the foreground, wild animals (lions, lionesses and other felines) are depicted in dynamic poses, suggesting hunting or tension between predators and prey. A deer, placed in the lower centre of the composition, stands out with its alert posture, accentuating the feeling of imminent danger. 

On the right, a dark horse, shown in profile, appears anxious and takes part in the commotion in the foreground. In the background, in a clearing bathed in light, other animals (bovids) appear, grouped together in a calmer space, reinforcing the contrast between areas of danger and tranquillity. 

The upper part of the painting is animated by birds in flight, among which exotic species such as macaws stand out. Their presence adds a decorative dimension and emphasises the abundance and diversity of the animal kingdom. 

The landscape is structured by dense vegetation, composed of trees with varied foliage and aquatic plants, which frame the scene and guide the eye towards the distance. The sky, streaked with light clouds, brings a luminous atmosphere and contributes to the depth of the composition. 

Roelant Savery